Malaysia : More kindies closed due to rise in HFMD

Via The Star :

" More than 10 kindergartens in the state have been closed for a week following a spike in cases of hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD).

From 116 HFMD cases during the first six weeks of this year, the figure has jumped to 206 cases as of March 10.

State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh, however, said there was no outbreak.

He said the figures were only a “slight increase” compared to the corresponding period last year, and the closure of the kindergartens was a preventive measure.

“We are monitoring the situation closely to keep the disease under control.

“We will brief kindergarten operators on how to spot HFMD symptoms.

“They must close as soon as two cases are reported in the same kindergarten,” said Phee.

There were 79 cases of HFMD in the state's northeast district, 21 in the southwest, nine in north Seberang Prai, 30 in central Seberang Prai and 67 in south Seberang Prai."